We take great care to ensure that our dogs live a happy, balanced life, rich in exercise and play. They walk a lot, play with balls, and run freely. You’ve probably seen various types of balls in the hands of dog owners, but it’s a misconception that any ball is suitable for this purpose. We have gathered some key aspects to consider when choosing the right ball.
What makes a good dog ball?
Use a high-quality, specially designed ball made specifically for dogs, available at pet supply stores. Your dog will enjoy holding it in their mouth, and it’s less likely to be chewed on or damage their teeth. If it has a rope attached, even better! (Of course, be prepared: there is no such thing as an indestructible ball… but we’ll address that as well.)
For a large dog, like our Labradors, choose a bigger ball to prevent the risk of them accidentally swallowing a smaller one during play. Safety is a must.
What should you avoid putting in your dog’s mouth?
DO NOT use a battery-operated ball. Absolutely not! If the outer cover is damaged in a careless moment and the dog accidentally swallows the battery, it could cost them their life in a short time.
If you choose to play ball after dark, opt for a toy made from phosphorescent material, i.e., one that glows in the dark after exposure to light, without requiring a separate light source.
DO NOT USE a solid plastic ball! Especially not with a young, growing puppy, as it could cause them to knock out their teeth. Moreover, if the ball is carried around often, it can interfere with the natural growth direction of their teeth, leading to potential health problems.
DO NOT USE a tennis ball! Dirt can accumulate on the fibers of a tennis ball’s outer covering, which may damage your dog’s tooth enamel over time and lead to dental issues.
If you take these aspects into account, only the simplest rule remains: play with a ball that you both enjoy — one that your four-legged friend will eagerly take in their mouth!
Piroska Komondi, the professional manager of the Baráthegyi Guide Dog School, and Judit Erdélyi, the puppy-raising coordinator of our foundation, contributed to the preparation of this article.
